DUNGUN: Greater emphasis must be given to research and development (R&D) in energy storage technology to reduce Malaysia’s dependence on imported batteries, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof (pic).
The Deputy Prime Minister said this is also important to build domestic capabilities in the production and development of energy-related technologies.
“Rather than merely importing batteries, we should begin focusing on research and development, and build our own internal capabilities in battery manufacturing and other technologies closely related to the country’s energy supply,” he said.
Fadillah was speaking to reporters after the launch of the 100MW/400MWh Santong Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project developed by Tenaga Nasional Bhd.
“I hope this first BESS launch will serve as a starting point for TNB to continue expanding its efforts, particularly in strengthening cooperation with overseas suppliers,” he said, Bernama reported.
Fadillah said the increasingly uncertain global landscape highlighted the need for Malaysia to reduce its reliance on foreign countries and strengthen national self-sufficiency across the entire energy sector chain.
“This includes energy supply and related technologies, including battery storage systems, so that one day we will be able to produce our own batteries,” he said.
He added that Malaysia’s energy transition efforts must address three key elements of the energy trilemma, beginning with energy security to ensure a stable and sufficient supply amid global uncertainties.
“The second element is sustainability, where we must ensure the energy supplied is environmentally friendly and does not damage the environment. We also aim to reduce dependence on energy generated through carbon combustion,” he said.
He said the third element is affordability, which ensures energy supply remains not only secure and sustainable, but also affordable for consumers and competitive for the industrial sector.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the project marks a significant step in strengthening electricity grid stability and supporting Malaysia’s energy transition agenda in a progressive, balanced and orderly manner.
He said the project is among the country’s earliest large-scale utility battery energy storage system initiatives, aimed at supporting wider integration of renewable energy into the national electricity supply system.
